Speaker draws heavily from Freedom Caucus for new leadership team

CONCORD — House Speaker Gene G. Chandler, R-Bartlett, said he would form an inclusive leadership team that recognized the contributions of the conservative Freedom Caucus and House Republican Alliance.

On Wednesday he delivered, appointing Republicans from both caucuses to top leadership positions.

Chandler was recently elected to replace Speaker Shawn Jasper, R-Hudson, who stepped down to become Commissioner of Agriculture.

“When I ran to be elected speaker, I promised to retain the current leadership, including current chairs and vice chairs, and I have done that,” said Chandler. “I also promised to add to that leadership and bring more members into the fold.”

Former Speaker Pro-Tempore Sherm Packard, R-Hudson, in his 14th term, will serve as deputy speaker, while Rep. Barbara Griffin, R-Goffstown, in her second term, will serve as speaker pro-tempore.

Chandler also announced the formation of a 13-member Policy Advisory Committee, chaired by Sanborn with Bates as vice chairman.

Sanborn was the closest competitor to Chandler in the election for House Speaker last month, and is a co-chairman of the House Republican Alliance, which bills itself as the longest-running and largest conservative caucus in the House.

Bates, Hill, Renzullo and Sullivan are all active in the Freedom Caucus, which played a significant role in tying up the House Finance Committee budget in the last session.

Chandler also announced the creation of a 13-member Policy Advisory Committee, chaired by Sanborn with Bates as vice chairman.